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Latest Where Veterans Eat Free on Nov. 11
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WASHINGTON, D.C. · DC & NATIONAL EDITION · WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2026
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Where Veterans Eat Free on Nov. 11

Published November 11, 2026 at 9:29 am | By HERE City National Desk, Staff Reporter

Restaurant table set with drinks, flowers and a napkin
From the HERE City National Desk

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Restaurant chains across the country are thanking veterans and active-duty service members with free food Wednesday for Veterans Day, and a few of the offers extend past Nov. 11 with incentives to come back.

Most of the deals require proof of service, such as a military or veteran ID, and many are dine-in only at participating locations. Here is a sampling of what chains have announced:

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Applebee’s is serving a no-cost entrée off a holiday menu to dine-in guests with proof of service; drinks and tip are not covered. Chili’s has a similar free entrée offer from a limited menu at participating restaurants.

Denny’s is handing out a free Original Grand Slam breakfast from 5 a.m. to noon. Golden Corral is holding its yearly Military Appreciation Night with a free buffet for veterans. Red Robin is comping its Red’s Big Tavern Burger, served with bottomless fries.

Starbucks is pouring a free 12-ounce brewed coffee, hot or iced, for veterans, service members and military spouses at participating stores.

Outback Steakhouse is giving away a Bloomin’ Onion appetizer and a soft drink, plus a meal offer to use on a return trip. Buffalo Wild Wings has 10 free boneless wings with fries, Red Lobster is offering free shrimp and Smashburger has a free All-American Smash burger.

Texas Roadhouse is also marking the day with free meals for veterans and active military members, and the chain advises checking with local restaurants for participation details.

Because offers and hours vary by location, it is worth calling ahead before heading out.

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Section: More Washington DC business news

Washington business profiles

Filed under: Washington DC Business News

What's Happening
Who qualifies for Veterans Day free meals?
Generally veterans and active-duty service members with proof of service; some offers also cover military spouses.
Are the deals dine-in only?
Many are, including Applebee's, Chili's, Denny's and Red Robin, so check before ordering takeout.
Do any deals last past Nov. 11?
Yes. Outback Steakhouse pairs its free appetizer with a meal offer for a future visit.
HERE City National Desk
HEREWashingtonDC · BUSINESS

HERE is a staff reporter for HERE WashingtonDC covering local news, community stories, and developments across Washington, D.C.. HERE is committed to accurate, community-first journalism.

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